We *might* join a gym eventually but for now I want to do weights at home. I have some hand weights and need to buy at least one size heavier because they are just not enough for when I do biceps/triceps but they are good for shoulder/back exercises for me. Anyways, I'm wonder more what are some good exercises that I can do at home with household equipment (our apt is extremely small so we don't even have space for one of those big balls) for abs/legs. Squats seem obvious but they KILL my knees I just can't seem to do too many of them.
I already run about 5x a weeks so I guess I do get a good leg workout in but I'd like to do some weight training on them too.
For more ab work, you could try doing a plank move in between sets of weights. It's great for strengthening your core.
If squats hurt your knees do lunges do as well? Lunges, squats and deadlifts have done so much for my legs and butt. You use your stomach to keep balance and form so if you keep your midsection tight during these it will get a work out as well.
And of course there are the classic moves such as crunches and reverse crunches as well.
Krista has a great website about exercise, and especially weight training for women. Poke around - she has workouts, things to do without weights, or using household things. She has an excellent tutorial on squats - it may be your form that's hurting your knees! It's an overall great resource.
At home weight training
